Congratulations on your Engagement!

This season of your life is so special and unique – you’ll be planning the first day of your marriage with the help of family and friends, plus a few amazing professionals we hope you will find in this issue of V3.

As a wedding professional who has been working with brides, grooms, and their families for 16 years, we know a few things about the engagement season. There’s a lot of voices to listen to and a lot of people willing to give you advice. I would encourage you to listen to it all, but give yourself time to make your own decisions knowing that the people who love you truly want you to have a wonderful wedding day.

Your wedding should be a reflection of your personalities, your story, your family, and the future you are creating. This magazine is filled with ideas and photos from reallife weddings in our community – use this issue to inspire you. The professionals who have chosen to showcase their products and services in this issue want to take care of you and your fiancé to help you create a very special wedding day.

Besides reading and referencing this issue of V3, I would also encourage you to make a list of your priorities for the big day. Is the band more important to you than having a lot of flowers? Would you be just as happy with a less-expensive DJ and having a larger meal for your guests? Knowing what you are most happy with will help you guide your decisions and keep you on task and within budget.

Lastly, have some fun! These months (years!) that you spend planning your wedding are the last of your single days and a preparation time for your married years. Ask your parents and grandparents about their wedding traditions.

I’m always amazed at how large bouquets were at the time when my grandparents got married in the 1930’s. Laugh at past trends for weddings, like the puffy sleeves on gowns in the 80’s or the colored tuxedos from the 70’s. Take the time to enjoy the traditions of your family before creating new traditions with your spouse.

So again, I offer you my congratulations! You’ve made a wonderful decision to spend the rest of your life with the person you love. As you make plans, bring along this issue for all the inspiration it can provide.

All the best to you and your fiancé!

Holly Lynch